ROUGHYEDS have added more championship quality with the signing of second-rower Brad Gallagher on a deal lasting until the end of the 2025 season.
The 23-year-old joins Roughyeds from Newcastle Thunder to become the club’s third signing since the conclusion of the League One season in September.
Wakefield-born Gallagher offers aggression, strong ball carries as well as versatility due to him being capable of operating at loose-forward and in the centre position.
The second-rower started his professional career at Bradford Bulls after coming through and impressing in their academy and reserve set-up.
After rising through the ranks, he eventually made his senior debut for the Bulls in 2019, which earned him a two-year contract with the West Yorkshire club.
Before moving to the then full-time Newcastle, ahead of the 2022 season, he made 13 appearances and scored four tries for Bradford.
He made 39 appearances for Thunder, during his two-year stay at Kingston Park, and scored four tries.
After hearing of Oldham’s interest and the club’s plans, Gallagher says he “couldn’t wait” to commit his future to Roughyeds, despite offers elsewhere.
“I had a little bit of other interest, but when I heard the vision of the club and who they are bringing in, I was excited straight away and I couldn’t wait to sign,” he said.
“We want to reach the top; we don’t want to be settling for League One or even Championship – we want to be pushing to go to the very top.
“I went to the Boundary Park for the play-off game against North Wales and it’s an unbelievable stadium.
“I am only 23, but I feel like I have a lot of leadership qualities for my age. I’m loud on the pitch and I like to get stuck in and work hard for myself as well as the people around me.”
Gallagher becomes the eighth player to sign with Roughyeds for next year with more signings to be revealed tomorrow and the coming days.
Photo by Chris Lishman Photography
